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Best of the Balkans Itinerary
Day 1 - UK - Budapest (Hungary)
Fly from the UK to Budapest. On arrival you’ll be transferred to your river ship on the Danube River.
Day 2 - Budapest
Spend the day exploring the sights of Budapest. Visit Castle Hill, the Houses of Parliament, and Margaret Island. Take in the historic monuments such as Heroes’ Square and St Stephen’s Cathedral. Enjoy a Welcome Reception and Gala Welcome Dinner on board in the evening.
Day 3 - Mohacs - Pecs
Hungary’s fifth largest city and World Heritage site has lots to offer in the way of sightseeing. Visit the copper domes of the Mosque of Pasha Qasim, as well as the 11th-century Pecs Cathedral.
Day 4 - Vukovar (Croatia)
Following the Croatian War of Independence, Vukovar’s economy, infrastructure and culture were in disarray. However, today you will see the efforts taken to restore this city to its former glory. Today, visit the Vukovar City Museum, hidden inside Eltz Manor. Enjoy the chance to wander through the castle complex.
Day 5 - Belgrade (Serbia)
Visit a local family’s village, taking a tour of their home and barn to meet the resident farm animals. Stroll through the family’s fruit orchards to learn about the brewing process of ‘slivovitz’. This plum brandy is the national drink of choice. In Serbia’s capital, join a guided tour through the city. Perhaps see the Belgrade Fortress and the Serbian Orthodox Temple of St Sava. Experience a traditional Serbian way of living during your Insider Experience today.
Day 6 - Iron Gates
Get ready to witness nature at its finest today as your ship cruises through the Iron Gates. This spectacular series of gorges connects Serbia and Romania, and makes for an out-of-this-world cruising experience. Make sure to have your camera charged and at the ready!
Day 7 - Rousse (Bulgaria)
Go ashore to Rousse, one of Bulgaria’s most elegant cities. Join a walking tour and admire the belle epoque architecture and manicured garden squares, which are reminiscent of Vienna. You’ll also pass by Liberty Square, the courthouse, the Rousse Opera House and Alexander Battenberg Square.
Day 8 - Bucharest
Spend the entire day in Bucharest, Romania’s hip capital. Join a guided tour of the city and take in the wide tree-lined boulevards, then walk through the Old City centre to the Royal Court, Stavropoleos Church and the Lipscani district. The afternoon is yours to spend at leisure, or perhaps you would like to wander the open-air Village Museum and gain an insight into traditional Romanian life.
Day 9 - Veliko Tarnovo - Arbanassi
Today you’ll discover the fortified walls and cobblestone lanes of Veliko Tarnovo. With a local expert, be guided through this medieval city and uncover its rich history. At its centre, see the restored Tsarevets Fortress, citadel of the Second Bulgarian Empire. After, head to the hilltops to visit Arbanasi, a village brimming with history.
Day 10 - Vidin - Belogradchik
Today you’ll discover the fortified walls and cobblestone lanes of Veliko Tarnovo. With a local expert, be guided through this medieval city and uncover its rich history. At its centre, see the restored Tsarevets Fortress, citadel of the Second Bulgarian Empire. After, head to the hilltops to visit Arbanasi, a village brimming with history.
Day 12 - Novi Sad (Serbia)
Explore Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city, on a guided tour. Afterwards, spend your free time relaxing, or perhaps visit Petrovaradin Fortress and check out its catacombs.
Day 13 - Kalocsa (Hungary) - Puszta
Get to know Hungary’s oldest town, Kalocsa, set right on the Danube. The town is best known for its vibrant paprika festival as well as traditional folk art and local handicrafts. Afterwards, head to Puszta for your Insider Experience - a traditional horse show featuring Magyar cowboys and fine equestrian skills.
Day 14 - Budapest
Return to Budapest, where you will spend the day your own way. You may wish to visit the Hospital in the Rock.
Day 15 - Budapest - UK
Disembark your ship this morning and be transferred to the airport for your return flight to the UK.